.jpg?w=1)
拍品專文
In this elegant portrait, Maharaja Bhim Singh of Jodhpur (r.1793-1803) is depicted receiving Maharaja Pratap Singh of Jaipur (r.1778-1803). Maharaja Pratap Singh sits beyond another, similarly dressed, figure who is probably also a member of the Jaipur family. Maharaja Bhim Singh’s sister married Pratap Singh in 1801 and it is likely that this scene depicts discussions surrounding that particular event. Certainly, as Leng Tan notes in his entry on the painting, “the intimate quality of our picture suggests a private occasion, lacking in regal pomp but convivial and infused with warmth of feeling between the protagonists” (Simon Ray, Indian and Islamic Works of Art, November, 2010, no.37). The flowers that are held by the members of the Jaipur family may also be symbolic of the marriage proposal and the unity of the two families.
Another closely related depiction of a meeting of these two figures is in a Private Collection (published by Rosemary Crill, Marwar Painting: A History of the Jodhpur Style, Mumbai, 2000, fig.87, p.111). Also dated to circa 1801, it probably depicts either the same occasion or another event which took place during the wedding preparations or festivities.
Another closely related depiction of a meeting of these two figures is in a Private Collection (published by Rosemary Crill, Marwar Painting: A History of the Jodhpur Style, Mumbai, 2000, fig.87, p.111). Also dated to circa 1801, it probably depicts either the same occasion or another event which took place during the wedding preparations or festivities.